Cathay Pacific Orders 21 Boeing 777-9X

Cathay Pacific said Friday it has ordered 21 long-haul Boeing 777-9X planes at a list price of $7.48 billion dollars, as the Hong Kong carrier modernises its fleet off the back of disappointing earnings this year.

The yet-to-be launched 777X series is Boeing’s newest member of the 777 family, with advanced technology including composite wings and new engines that Boeing says consume 20 percent less fuel than today’s model.

“The 777-9X promises us improved payload range capability and reduced operating costs, in addition to a significant reduction in environmental emissions,” the airline’s chief executive John Slosar said in a statement.
“Cathay Pacific is committed to modernising its fleet to provide a superior experience to passengers,” Slosar said, adding that the airline was “delighted to be an early customer” for the next generation aircraft.
The airline said the planes, which will seat up to 400 passengers and will be delivered between 2021 and 2024, were ideal for long-haul destinations in North America and Europe.

“The huge investment we are making in new aircraft underscores… our commitment to maintaining Hong Kong’s position as one of the world’s great aviation hubs,” Slosar said.
This year, Cathay took delivery of six new aircraft in the first six months, including two Airbus A330-300s, three Boeing 777-300ERs, and one Boeing 747-8F freighter.

It has increased daily services to popular destinations such as London, Los Angeles, New York and Toronto.

The airline Emirates placed an order in November for 150 Boeing 777X aircraft — 35 777-8Xs and 115 of the larger 777-9X variant, in a contract the Dubai-based carrier said was valued at $76 billion.